As the chill sets in, Wisconsin’s Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is your ultimate cold-weather companion. This soul-warming classic blends ground beef, tender Yukon Gold potatoes, and a cheese-infused broth into a velvety masterpiece that’s as nostalgic as it is satisfying.
It’s a recipe that’s been simmering in Midwestern kitchens for generations.
With its fuss-free prep and endless customization options, this one-pot wonder transforms simple ingredients into a meal worth gathering around. Ready to embrace a bowlful of comfort?
A Heritage of Hearty Soups
Potato soup has long been a staple in American cuisine, with variations appearing in countless family cookbooks. While traditional potato soup ranks among the top 10 most popular soups worldwide, this Wisconsin version elevates the classic by incorporating ground beef and using the convenience of a crockpot.
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Why This Recipe Works
The genius of this recipe lies in its layered flavors and simple preparation. The slow cooking process allows the potatoes to become perfectly tender while the ground beef infuses the broth with rich, savory notes.
Unlike standard potato soups that rely solely on cream and vegetables, this version offers a more substantial meal with its addition of protein.
The Perfect Potato Choice
For best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes in this recipe. These potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and maintain their texture even after long cooking periods. Their thin skins also mean less prep work, as peeling becomes optional.
Perfect Pairings
This comforting soup deserves thoughtful accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideal pairings that complement its rich, creamy flavors:
Bread Options
- Crusty sourdough bread or warm French baguette for dipping
- Buttery garlic bread
- Homemade cornbread with honey butter
Fresh Sides
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Crisp coleslaw
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
Beverage Suggestions
- Full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot
- Dark German lager or amber ale
- Crisp apple cider (hot or cold)
- Sparkling water with lemon for a lighter option
The key is to balance the soup’s richness with items that provide contrast in texture and freshness. A crisp salad or tangy coleslaw can cut through the creaminess, while crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful broth.
Making It Your Own: Tips for Customization
One of the joys of a recipe like Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup is its adaptability. While the classic version is already a proven crowd-pleaser, you can tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs without losing its comforting essence.
For a smoky kick, consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon or a dash of smoked paprika. Vegetarians can substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein crumbles or lentils, while swapping the chicken broth for vegetable stock. Want to boost the nutritional content? Stir in fresh spinach, kale, or diced carrots toward the end of the cooking process. And for cheese enthusiasts, extra-sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the soup’s already luxurious flavor.
No matter how you customize it, this versatile dish remains a quintessential comfort food, perfect for warming hearts and bellies on cold Wisconsin nights—or wherever you may be.
Wisconsin-Style Crockpot Creamy Potato & Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 large potatoes peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.
- Transfer beef mixture to crockpot and add potatoes, carrots, and celery.
- Pour in broth and add seasonings (thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper).
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.
- In the final 20 minutes, stir in cream, cheese, and milk. Add cornstarch mixture if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese.
Disclaimer: Some images in this content were created/edited with the help of AI.
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When you’re looking for a warm and filling meal, hearty soups are the way to go
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.